TOPO : les synthèses de l’équipe Saine alimentation et mode de vie actif

The adoption of healthy eating—an important determinant of health—is influenced by both individual and environmental (physical, sociocultural, economic, and political) characteristics (Giskes et al., 2011; Raine, 2005; Story et al., 2008; WHO, 2002). Considering the influence of the food environment on diet quality, it is essential to work to ensure that the characteristics of the food environment are conducive to the adoption of a healthy diet.

Whether for recreation or transportation, safe bike-riding is the result of interactions between individuals’ and environments’ characteristics, including natural elements, as well as man-made and developed elements. This TOPO’s main objective is to present the results of scientific writings concerning the association between the man-made environment, bike-riding and cyclist safety.

Some elements of the man-made environment promote safe bike-riding and thereby contribute to…

Studies on the economic burden of obesity and overweight carried out in Canada and other industrialized…

Mental health promotion and common mental disorder prevention interventions may apply several well-recognized strategies. Noteworthy among them are strategies that foster the development of public policies and the creation of supportive environments for mental health, that strengthen community action and that support the acquisition of personal skills. These interventions can be global, focusing on several key determinants of mental health, or they can be specific, focusing on only one of…

Physical activity and sedentary living are important public health issues. Several studies have revealed links between various features of the built environment and physical activity. In order to develop a profile, better understand the impacts of built environment features, and better direct interventions on the creation of built environments that are conducive to physical activity, using the best information available is essential. The aim of this TOPO is to outline the main methods for…

Obesity and overweight are risk factors linked to the appearance of a number of chronic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. However, obesity also has an economic impact. Indeed, studies that have quantified the economic burden of obesity in Canada and abroad observe that the problem engenders significant costs for society. Such costs are not confined to those stemming from broader recourse to health services. Costs related to absenteeism, disability and other productivity…

In early adolescence, young people adopt lifestyle habits that could play a determining role in their future health. At this early age, they begin to develop their independence, while continuing to be influenced by their sociocultural environment. Sociocultural factors have an impact on eating habits and physical activity, and this is even more true in adolescence when youth are in the process of learning and experimenting.

The results of the Ados 12-14 study (see box, page 3) show…

The energy drink market has grown phenomenally in recent years. These products are said to enhance energy levels, physical alertness, and performance, and, as a result, are used by consumers for various reasons on various occasions. According to the literature, the reasons given by consumers include: staying alert, boosting energy, increasing motivation, improving sports performance, and partying all night. Some consumers also drink them because they taste good, to quench their thirst, for…

The prevalence of obesity has been growing steadily for a number of years. Obesity is usually associated with two major factors: increased calorie intake and reduced level of physical activity among the population. However, other variables may contribute to weight problems, including a lack of sleep. This issue of Topo will examine recent research results on the relationship between sleep and weight status, and potential links between the environment, sleep, and obesity. Sleep is a lifestyle…

A portrait of the North Karelia Project, the basis for community programs in chronic disease prevention.

The winning aspects of the North Karelia approach